Fewer side effects than opioids
The effectiveness of this treatment is explained by the fact that tanezumab is an inhibitor of NGF (nerve growth factor), a protein circulating in the blood and which increases the sensitivity of cells in the nervous system responsible for pain.
“This is a victory in the search for non-opioid treatments for chronic pain,” said John Markman of the University of Rochester Medical Center and lead author of the study. Especially since the results also improved movement, confirming the reduction in pain.
One downside, however: tanezumab is associated with potentially severe side effects, although very rare. Some patients have developed joint problems, going so far as to require the fitting of prostheses. This study, conducted over a long period, reassures against this risk since it showed a low rate of the number of cases. Especially in comparison with the high incidence of side effects linked to opioid analgesics. The latter indeed expose to a significant risk of dependence and overdose.
Note: This study was funded by the laboratories Pfizer and Eli Lilly & Company
Covid-19 and pregnancy: no risk for the baby
Source: Destination Santé
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